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It's that time of year again--time to sign-up for next year's housing.  It's almost unreal that, by next year, I'm already going to be a senior in college. Weird; I still recall coming into UIUC as a freshman, full of apprehension but excitement for what I would experience in the next 8 semesters in a new chapter of life.

Anyways, housing has every bit to deal with being a senior than it does with friendships.  Quite frankly, there aren't many upperclassmen in the dorms, especially in LAR, which will make for an interesting senior year.  While serving with InterVarsity in the dorms, I might as well be called the LAR mom. -__-

On the other hand, I suppose what has hit me harder is the fact that people will be moving out or away from me.  But what I have come to realize is that...I start from scratch every year.  So what makes next near any different?

In general, it seems that, when I become good friends with someone, they just move away the following year.  (Understandably, this is mostly a cost-saving measure.)  But as much as I may have some mild neglect issues, I always have to remember: It's not about me.

The funny thing about friends moving away...  I've begun to think that God placed me in these relationships for a specific reason.  And oddly enough, most of these friendships tended to involve the other person either recovering from or being involved in a "life crisis".  Where, ironically, I was one to simply listen, advise, and/or pray for them.  As I may see it, maybe God was using me to help these individuals, so that when they left LAR, they could continue to grow more independently--outside of my mother-like shepherding and care.

Honestly, I'm saddened that people are moving out of the dorms or whatnot, but I know that God will be placing these people in other locations and ministries and use them mightily.  Where God uses friendships and various situations to further his Kingdom, I was lucky enough to have 4 of those this semester, so far.

I am certainly saddened to see people go, but there's still another semester ahead...  And as for next year, I'm excited to hear how the Lord will be working in and through the lives of my girls.  Again, it's not about me.

For, in all that we do, it is ultimately for Christ and His Kingdom.